re: Need Chicago dining recommendations

Topolobampo. Absolutely. I think Rick Bayless is a shining example of the best that Chicago has to offer. Chefs that love the food that they are cooking and put that passion on the table and in their dining room. Bayless is thought very highly of amongst the chef community, but also amongst the Mexican community as he has truly taken the time to immerse himself in the food and the culture. And he gives back to the community through various charities, etc. I'm not sure the exact details, but I've heard that every year he closes the restaurants for 2 weeks and takes the staff to Mexico so that they can learn firsthand about the ingredients they're using, etc. That's the kind of approach to food that i love.